1976 Ford Thunderbird vs. 2005 Audi A3
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Ford Thunderbird (135 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 325 kg more than 2005 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Ford Thunderbird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1976 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1976 Ford Thunderbird (317 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1976 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Thunderbird | 2005 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Ford | Audi |
| Model | Thunderbird | A3 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 317 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2580 mm |
